Vogue editor Anna Wintour is facing internal criticism over her role in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's decision to honor designer John Galliano, who had previously made antisemitic remarks. Sources close to the publication suggest Wintour, described by some as "out of touch with the new generation," should take responsibility for the controversy that ultimately led to Galliano withdrawing from the honor.
One fashion insider told The Post, "It’s too late for an apology — she should retire." Another Conde Nast insider stated that Wintour, 76, "doesn’t understand what people are talking about and thought she could shoulder through this and it would blow over." This sentiment was echoed by claims that "Anna’s lost her touch on the zeitgeist."
The selection of Galliano for a planned Metropolitan Museum of Art gala and costume exhibit sparked significant backlash from donors, Jewish leaders, and others, prompting demands for the honor to be rescinded. Galliano announced his withdrawal on Monday.
Sources indicated that Wintour was instrumental in pushing for Galliano's recognition, driven by a belief in his talent and the possibility of redemption. "It comes from a place of love and forgiveness. She really believes in people’s second chances and becoming better people and learning from mistakes," one source said, adding that Wintour considers Galliano a friend. This support also extended to designer Georgina Chapman, whose husband, Harvey Weinstein, was embroiled in a sex-abuse scandal, with Wintour reportedly encouraging people to wear Chapman's Marchesa brand.
Despite claims that Wintour is out of step with younger generations, particularly regarding social media, one source defended her, stating, "She’s digital-savvy and reads plenty of things on her phone, and she’s always on Zoom."
However, critics argue that celebrating Galliano on such a prominent scale, especially amid rising antisemitism, sends the wrong message. "To let him come back is one thing. But to celebrate him on such a scale especially when antisemitism is at its highest … it sends all the wrong messages," a source commented.
The controversy has also raised questions about Wintour's influence and position. The industry source suggested she should no longer serve as a Met board trustee. "I wish Anna would take more accountability,’’ another source said. "She is the person who wanted this to happen, never fully considering the consequences."
Representatives for Wintour’s camp pushed back against the notion that she was solely responsible, emphasizing that the decision was a collective one involving numerous Met board members. "It wasn’t her decision alone, by any stretch of the imagination. This exhibition… people have been speaking about it for at least a couple of years. It was a big group decision. It’s a team effort. Not just her."
Despite these clarifications, some insiders maintain that Wintour misjudged the situation. "Anna single-handedly thought she could willfully get [Galliano] back in’’ to the fashion world, a Hollywood insider stated. "She’s been at it a long time, and she really misjudged it, and she made him vulnerable while doing that. She’s not reading the f–king room. She really overplayed her hand. … Anna has stayed too long at the party."
Conde Nast declined to comment on the matter.